Possible body of missing Minnesota kayaker found in Wyoming lake

Jack Scieszka, 14, walks along Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park, Wyo, Saturday, Aug. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Jack Scieszka, 14, walks along Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park, Wyo, Saturday, Aug. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

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(NewsNation) — A body recovered from a lake in Grand Teton National Park is believed to be that of Minnesota kayaker Wesley Dopkins, who went missing in 2024.

A nonprofit search and recovery organization found the body in Jackson Lake on Sunday at a depth of 420 feet, according to The Associated Press. The outlet reports that official identification by the Teton County Coroner’s Office is still pending. However, a statement by Grand Teton National Park officials notes that the “characteristics of the remains” suggest they are Dopkins.

Dopkins, who is from St. Paul, Minnesota, was last seen paddling on Jackson Lake from Elk Island towards Waterfalls Canyon on June 15, 2024. His folding kayak and dry bag were found floating during the initial search for the 43-year-old.

Dopkins was not wearing a life vest at the time of his disappearance. The National Park Service requires anyone boating or floating on Jackson Lake to wear one. In addition, officials warn that hypothermia can set in quickly in the cold water and that conditions can change hour to hour.

Missing

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